Memories Count
When I was a little girl (many years ago) I observed older folks. I wondered what they thought about, I wondered how they spent their time, I wondered about the often misshaped bodies. Most of all I found their lives of inactivity completely unacceptable.
My Grandmother, Emilie Brunn Siemens, lived with us for the last part of her life. Although she spoke low German (Plautt Dietch), I could understand her, and she understood me when I spoke English. Grosmom (the name we called her) often sat on our porch in the steel rocking chair Dad bought for her in Clinton, Oklahoma. In time to the song, “Shall We Gather At the River“, she rocked and sang.
Grosmom told me how she traveled to this country from Russia, about 1883, as an
indebtured servant to her older sister. She showed me the scarf, a black wool scarf with colorful embroidery that she purchased in Stalingrad. She showed me how she could pinch the back of her hand and the skin would stay ‘pinched’ for a long time. She laughed when I tried unsuccessfully to do the same. During World War II, she would ask Dad what was happening. Now I realize that she could picture her home and remember things I had never seen.
Now I know that Grosmom was not bored, but remembered so many things…such as her four sons, her two daughters, one who preceded her in death. She remembered her dear husband, waiting for her in Heaven. Ecclesiastes 12 begins.. (The Message)
Before the years take their toll and your vigor wanes,
Before your vision dims and the world blurs
And the winter years keep you close to the fire.
In old age, your body no longer serves you so well.
Muscles slacken, grip weakens, joints stiffen.
The shades are pulled down on the world.
You can’t come and go at will. Things grind to a halt.
That is where Grosmom lived, and that is where I will soon be. But God has given me memories, beautiful memories of grandparents, children and grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Memories of my 18 year old grandson who shared his favorite verse with me: For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11 – NIV)
Yes, memories of our twelve grandchildren, our new grandchildren, and the five great grandchildren. God has blessed us mightily.
But there is one memory ever-new that I remember. It is when I was eight years old, in the spring. My heart was burdened with sin. I wanted to be with my parents, grandparents and great-grandparents when I died. I can remember stumbling forward and the angst I felt in my heart 70 years ago. I remember the light and peace in my heart as I came up out of the water, baptized by Mr. Gasaway. That peace stays with me…a gift from Jesus Christ. Each Lord’s Day I remember. Each day in prayer I remember His Love and sacrifice for my life – and for yours. I remember learning the verse – John 3:16 – This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. (The Message)
Of all the memories stored in my brain, the most important memory is the memory of Jesus. I have seen my dear husband, our children, our grandchildren and great grandchildren, but I have not seen Jesus. When He comes, I will be ready. I pray that my family will be there with me by remembering Jesus!
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